IELTS General Training Writing Task 1: Letter Writing Complete Guide

Dear Sir or Madam,[Formal — unknown recipient]

I am writing to draw your attention to a faulty item I purchased from your Oxford Street branch on 8 April 2026 and to request an urgent resolution.[Clear purpose — formal register]

The item in question is a Duronic DP5 food processor, which I purchased for £89.99. I have retained the original receipt as proof of purchase should it be required.[Bullet 1: describes item]

Upon returning home, I discovered that the motor failed to engage when the appliance was switched on. I attempted to use the device on three separate occasions, each time following the manufacturer's instructions precisely, but the result was the same on each occasion.[Bullet 2: explains the problem]

I would be grateful if you could arrange a full refund at your earliest convenience. Should a refund not be possible, I would be willing to accept a replacement item of equivalent value, provided that it has been tested prior to dispatch.[Bullet 3: states desired action]

I look forward to your prompt response on this matter.[Formal closing]

Yours faithfully,
A. Rahman[Correct sign-off for Dear Sir or Madam]

Dear Mr Patel,[Semi-formal — known by name]

I am writing to inform you of a significant issue with the heating system in my flat at 14B Greenfield Road, which requires your attention as soon as possible.[Clear, polite opening]

The central heating has not been functioning correctly for the past ten days. The boiler activates normally but fails to distribute heat through the radiators, which remain completely cold regardless of the thermostat setting.[Bullet 1: explains the problem]

As a result, the temperature inside the flat has dropped considerably, which has made it difficult to sleep comfortably and has begun to affect my health. I have been experiencing headaches and fatigue, which I attribute to the damp and cold conditions.[Bullet 2: impact on the tenant]

I would appreciate it if you could arrange for a qualified engineer to inspect the boiler at your earliest convenience. Could you please confirm by email when an appointment would be possible?[Bullet 3: request for action]

I hope to hear from you shortly.[Semi-formal close]

Yours sincerely,
D. Sharma[Correct — 'sincerely' used with named salutation]

Dear Priya,[Informal — first name]

I can't believe we're finally living in the same city! I've been meaning to write ever since I arrived last month, so here I am at last.[Natural, friendly opening — contractions appropriate]

I'm renting a small but really lovely flat in Brixton, just a five-minute walk from the tube station. It's a bit noisy compared to where I lived before, but I've already started to love the character of the neighbourhood — there's a brilliant market just around the corner that I visit most weekends.[Bullet 1: new home]

As for the city itself, I honestly wasn't expecting to fall for it this quickly! What I love most is how much there is to do at any time of day — the museums, the parks, the food scene. I went to Borough Market last Saturday and I think I might have spent half my weekly budget there, but it was absolutely worth it.[Bullet 2: what they like about the city]

We absolutely have to catch up soon! Are you free any evening next week? I was thinking we could try that Ethiopian restaurant on Coldharbour Lane that you mentioned last time we spoke.[Bullet 3: suggests meeting]

Can't wait to see you!

Best wishes,
Sara[Informal sign-off]